In 20 years, is the next generation going to look back at the beginning of the 21st century and wish the pictures were without a filter, clearer in color and sharpness? I like my memories clear-cut like diamonds. Crystallized in memory. So much that I can see the feelings glinting off.

Instagram filters reflect the tone of our day. People have romanticized all of life–the past, the present, and the future–and their Instagrams show it. We are living in the best time of our lives right now, they say. And things are only going to get better from here.

What is this generation going to be thinking about themselves in their youth when they are old and gray?